Background: Cardiovascular diseases are a group of common ailments that are a
leading cause of death worldwide. Various modifiable risk factors are identified,
consisting of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, and tobacco smoking.
This review aims to analyze the influence of strength training on these factors,
compare it to the impact of more popular aerobic exercise, and evaluate its
potential as an intervention in at-risk populations. Method: A systemic search was
conducted in the publicly available databases Pubmed and Google Scholar for
RCTs and review studies that included CVDs modifiable risk factors and strength
or aerobic training intervention. After screening, ten studies were included in the
analysis. Results: The review concludes that in the case of a few risk factors like
hypertension and diabetes, strength training might be a valuable alternative to
aerobic exercise. In the case of obesity, smoking cessation, and dyslipidemia, the
influence of this intervention is less clear. Conclusion: Health practitioners
worldwide should approach every patient individually, with careful
consideration of the advantages and disadvantages of each intervention.
Research indicates that strength training effectively reduces hypertension and
increases glycemic control. It may have some value in patients struggling with
obesity, dyslipidemia, and smoking cessation. However, personal preference,
other benefits of exercises, availability of additional equipment, and other factors
should be considered to ensure the best outcome.
Keywords: Strength training, resistance training, cardiovascular risk factors